Will starting blocks improve sprinters performance?

To those who may be less familiar, starting blocks are devices that athletes use at the start of any sprinting event. The starting blocks consist of a middle rail with two adjustable pedals or pads on either side. Generally, starting blocks are made out of a thick and solid aluminum spine. In fact, there are different types of starting blocks available in market - International starting blocks, Indoor starting blocks, Scholastic starting blocks etc.

To take advantage of starting blocks, the sprinters need the guidance of a trainer and with continued practice they will be able to improve their performances. But sprinters intending to use starting blocks must clearly understand that any improper use of starting blocks can adversely affect their sprinting form. It is therefore imperative that an athlete learns how to set up his blocks and deploy the right techniques.

In fact, sprinters should first decide which should be the power leg to go in front carrying the momentum and which should be the lead leg to come behind. Beginners must know that they will be initially uncomfortable using the starting blocks till they gain familiarity. Admittedly, proper guidance and continuous practice is needed for each runner to get success with starting blocks.
Sprinters should learn to focus on the block, ensure the pad positioning is right and keep the hips above the shoulders and the body in appropriate position when in the set command. Of course, the distance between the starting line and the blocks will vary according to the leg length and shoe size.

Sprinters should bestow attention to their foot position when starting to run. The initial points of both feet should be placed on the track for additional posturing in the calf muscles. Hands should be kept about shoulder width apart and in an arched position so that only the fingertips are actually touching the track. This will guarantee that you do not place excess weight on your arms which will obviously force your legs to move the bulk of your body’s mass.

It is critically important that the sprinters remain perfectly still when the ‘Set’ command is called. If a sprinter pops up or becomes erect immediately out of the blocks, it obviously means he is starting with an improper body and block positions.

Using starting blocks is tricky as a race can be won or lost the way you take off from the block. It is also important to know that the sprinter should unfailingly warm-up before practicing with the blocks as attempting to sprint with cold, tight muscles can result in physical injuries and muscle pulls. There are a number of warm-up exercises that you can do to loosen yourself before starting with the blocks. You can shake out your arms and shoulders, upper body, quads and hamstrings and more importantly, do some tuck jumps.

Difficult to believe, but there is very little tolerance as even a tenth of a second can make a difference between first and last place. Stated succinctly, the technique of coming out of the starting blocks has a lot to do with both power and speed.

Once sprinters are well-trained with the use of starting blocks and completely understand the technique, then they will realize how the blocks have enhanced their performance. Those who have used the starting blocks properly are at a distinct advantage in any sprinting event and that is why most sprinters clamor for getting trained with starting blocks.

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